Proficiency programs are measurement experiments performed by groups of laboratories, using samples specially produced for this purpose, under the coordination of a qualified and independent provider, who uses a standardized organization system, and who maintains total confidentiality about the information forwarded by the participants .

The provider coordinates activities such as sample preparation, homogeneity testing, stability assurance, sample distribution and receipt of test or analysis results, and statistical performance reporting.At the end of the process, participants use the report, containing the statistical analyzes of its results and an overview of all the results, for various purposes.

Organizations often use proficiency tests to verify the actual performance of their laboratories and to monitor their long-term performance independently.

At times, PTs are used to identify problems and to make improvements in established tests and analyzes, or to verify or validate the performance of new tests and methodologies.

Proficiency tests can be used as tools to support and encourage the internal processes of training professionals and evaluating their effectiveness.

Externally, the results can support the demonstration of competence and credibility of a laboratory providing services to its clients. Sometimes results in proficiency tests are used to assess the competence of service providers.

Often participation in programs is part of the mandatory requirements for demonstration of competence in evaluations and audits of regulatory bodies (eg in Brazil: ANP, MAPA, Anvisa) and accreditation bodies (Inmetro-ISO 17025).

In the IPT's PTS, some non-certified reference materials are sometimes offered, which we call quality control materials, that can be used for quality control actions of the laboratories participating in the rounds or even of other clients. Learn more details on the Quality Control Materials page.